“From the Bayou to the Stars”

[Verse 1]
I was born in New Orleans, down by the river bend,
Mama had a broken heart, and Daddy met no end.
We lived in rust and rhythm, where the swamp swallows the sun,
But I swore to leave that sorrow once my run had just begun.


---

[Verse 2]
Shoes with holes and muddy feet, the church bell sang my name,
Worked the docks, I hauled the freight, through hunger, smoke, and flame.
Dreams were stitched in silence, behind each shuttered door,
But I held them like a compass — always pointing to something more.


---

[Chorus]
Oh, I climbed through fire and storm,
Built my name where dreams are born.
From a shack to city lights,
I found my way, I earned my rights.
Now I raise this flag so high,
From the bayou to the sky.
Yes, I bled, but here I stand —
An American made by hand.


---

[Verse 3]
I walked through northern winters, and slept in southern dust,
Fell in love with freedom’s whisper, in her voice I placed my trust.
Met men with suits and dollars, who never knew the fight,
But I spoke the words of workers — and they feared my rising light.


---

[Chorus]
Oh, I climbed through fire and storm,
Built my name where dreams are born.
From a shack to city lights,
I found my way, I earned my rights.
Now I raise this flag so high,
From the bayou to the sky.
Yes, I bled, but here I stand —
An American made by hand.


---

[Bridge – slow and emotional]
Now I walk the halls of glass and steel,
But I still remember how hunger feels.
The scent of gumbo in the breeze,
The prayers Mama sang on her knees.


---

[Final Chorus – strong and proud]
Oh, I climbed through fire and storm,
Built my name where dreams are born.
I was forged in dirt and flame,
But I carved out my own name.
Now I stand where stars align,
With this dream that’s now all mine.
From New Orleans to freedom's land —
I'm an American made by hand.